Framing Fall in Mono County

Mono County, California, transforms into a photographer's haven as autumn takes hold. The county's diverse landscapes, ranging from rugged mountains to serene valleys, offer a spectrum of colors during this season. The aspen groves dotting the landscape turn vibrant shades of gold and orange, creating a striking contrast against the evergreen pines.

Photographing autumn in Mono County is a study in simplicity. Whether framing the iconic Conway Summit or the winding roads through the Eastern Sierra, the fall palette provides a natural allure that requires minimal embellishment. The play of light and shadow during this season adds depth to photographs, capturing the essence of Mono County's autumn without the need for elaborate descriptions. It stands in stark contrast to the eerie beauty of the tufas and the sulphurous environment surrounding them on the borders of Mono Lake, just a few miles away…

It Was All Yellow

Yosemite National Park, celebrated for its stunning landscapes, reveals a unique and captivating side during the fall season. In this post, my focus shifts from grand vistas to the individual marvels of the park's aspen trees, adorned in brilliant shades of yellow.

The transition of aspen leaves from green to a vibrant gold brings an extraordinary spectacle to Yosemite. These trees, with their distinctive white trunks and fluttering yellow leaves, command attention even amidst their majestic surroundings. I enjoyed capturing their intricate details—the delicate rounded leaves, the contrast of gold against the bark, and the hints of sunlight through the foliage.

A Seasonal Shift

As summer transitions to fall, Kings Canyon National Park undergoes a visible change. Green landscapes turn into warm autumn shades, offering a different view of the park. The ferns at the feet of the tall sequoias take on a golden hue, framing the green giants above them. Hiking along the park's trails provides a chance to enjoy the sound of leaves underfoot.

As temperatures cool down, local wildlife, like mule deer, squirrels, and the occasional black bear, adapt to the season. Fall is an excellent time for photographers and nature enthusiasts to capture the park's evolving scenery. Whether it's the lakes' reflections or waterfalls framed by changing leaves, Kings Canyon National Park in the fall presents a unique opportunity to witness nature's transformation.

Leaf Peeping Among the Sequoias

Visiting Sequoia National Park during the autumn season - or fall, as we call it here -, I was greeted by a breathtaking display of vibrant foliage. At this time of year, the landscape transforms into a painter’s palette, with hues of red, orange, and yellow splashed across the bushes and trees. The contrast between the evergreen giants and the vivid autumn leaves created a picturesque scene that felt straight out of a postcard. Although it is not a popular destination in the autumn, the coloured foliage we did find made for some really lovely images.